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The eSIM is an alternative to the conventional SIM card. We explain the difference between the SIM cards and on which devices you can use the function. In addition to newer smartphones such as the iPhone 14, smartwatches and the like can also be equipped with an eSIM
This is what eSIM means
In contrast to a normal SIM card, an eSIM is permanently installed in a device. It can therefore not be replaced. The “e” in eSIM comes from the word “embedded”.
- An eSIM uses the same specifications as normal SIM cards. They are therefore compatible with each other and it makes no difference which SIM type you use.
- The decisive advantage of an eSIM, however, is that the SIM chip can be rewritten by your provider. So if you have taken out a new contract, you no longer need to wait for your new SIM card.
- The eSIM also makes sense for smartphone manufacturers. As the eSIM is permanently installed in the device, there is no longer any need to install error-prone card mechanisms.
- Most current devices are eSIM-capable. These include all current iPhones from the XS onwards – including the iPhone 14 – and Samsung’s flagship series from the Samsung Galaxy S20 onwards. Google also offers the eSIM function on devices from the Google Pixel 3 onwards.
- In addition, more and more smartwatches are compatible with the eSIM. At Apple, these are all models from the Apple Watch Series 3 onwards, and at Samsung the models from the Samsung Galaxy Watch onwards. But Oppo, Xiaomi and Huawei also support the eSIM function on some smartwatches.
- You can get an eSIM from all three major contract providers Telekom, O2 and Vodafone. But smaller providers such as Congstar, 1&1 and Drillisch also offer the eSIM.
- To be able to use the eSIM, you need to take out a contract with most providers. After signing up, you will receive a conventional SIM card, which you can then convert into an eSIM. One exception is Telekom, where you can also obtain an eSIM for prepaid cards.
